RENOVATE

Foundry Maple reclaimed floors

If faced with obtaining new flooring in a remodel or new construction, I would never opt for new wood because of the sustainability issues, but these reclaimed floors are quite stunning and would be a great juxtapose for super sleek and modern white walls and furnishings. Ideally, you could find a local reclaiming mill so you’re not paying for transport of wood for long distances.

Baumraum tree houses

German company Baumraum combines the expertise of a landscape architect, a tree expert, and established, reputable craftsmen to conceive and construct these amazingly inspirational and architectural tree houses. They do build in United States if you’re interested. Or, if you’re like me, you can just peruse the projects and wish you had a big tree.

Custom Wallpaper via Flavor Paper

I just found out that Flavor Paper does custom wallpaper. Astek has been doing custom wallpaper for a while but it’s nice to know that there’s another resource. Flavor Paper can even customize inks if you’re going for a specific color that may be difficult to match.

Caesar Walnut Wall Mount Modern Vanity

Here’s a nice modern vanity which used to be $3000 and now it’s less than a grand. I’m not sure I’m a big fan of the giant portion above the counter surface, but that part is optional. The vanity itself is perfect for tight spaces.

Ace Hotel-Portland

I love the Ace Hotel. I’ve stayed at the one in Seattle, and they’ve really done a great job of taking a rough, existing space and making it comfortable. There is also a sense that it can be done on a limited budget because the treatments aren’t complicated. They start with spartan digs and work smartly with space and paint to create ‘zones’ and then add a few decorative elements.

I especially like how they’ve chosen this dark color to separate the bath space from the rest of the room. In a residential situation, a sink in the bedroom isn’t ideal, but the use of paint to create zones can be utilized in any multi-function situation.

Flat Iron Remodel

Just found this great remodel over at the apartment. They took a 900 sq. ft. Manhattan loft in the New York Flat Iron building and really utilized space and storage without making the place look small. I especially love the new bedroom which is separated from the rest of the apartment with curtains and a slight elevated area. Also inspiring is the white wall of closets which look like some amazing Italian built-in solution but could easily be accomplished with an Ikea budget.

Muji Prefab Home

No VOC paint

Indoor air quality is become increasingly important to consumers as we become aware of the dangers of air pollution. One great way to reduce air pollution indoors is by using paints with no VOC (volatile organic compounds). You can get them in a number of color ways, and

I like Freshaire Choice because the not only does the paint itself have no VOC’s but the pigments also have no VOC’s.